Radon Reduction in New Construction
Why should homes be built with radon-resistant techniques?
They make homes safer from radon. These construction techniques
help block radon from entering the home. The occupants will benefit from lower radon
levels in their new home.
The are easy to upgrade when there is a need to increase the radon reduction.
If high radon levels are found, the techniques allow for easy and inexpensive installation
of a fan for increased radon reduction in the home. Every new home should be tested
for radon by the homeowner after occupancy.
They are cost-effective for home buyers. It is more cost-effective
to include radon-resistant techniques while building a home, rather than installing
a radon reduction system in an existing home.
For example, materials and labor costs for radon-resistant techniques vs. retrofitting
an existing home is $350-$500 vs. $800-$2,500. That's a 128% to
400% savings. Some construction companies successfully use this
as a marketing advantage.
They improve the home's energy efficiency. Radon-resistant construction
techniques provide an average of $65 per year in energy savings
for the homeowner.
Radon-Resistant Construction Techniques
There are five major parts to the passive radon-resistant system:
- A layer of gas-permeable material under the foundation (usually
four inches of gravel)
- Plastic sheeting over the gas-permeable material
- Sealant and caulk on all openings in the concrete foundation floor
- A gas-tight three- or four-inch vent pipe that runs from under
the foundation through the house to the roof
- A roughed-in electrical junction box for the future installation
of a fan, if needed
These features create a physical barrier to radon entry. The vent pipe prevents
radon from entering your home by drawing the radon from below the ouse and venting
it to the air outside where it then dilutes with the outside air.
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